Since 2002, digital cameras have outsold film cameras. While the advantages of digital camera’s are well known, few are aware of the lurking problem of digital photography. The control and options that film negatives offered are in trouble with its digital equivalent, RAW files.
A RAW file is a file format created by a manufacturer to contain the (actual) raw data from a digital camera. Currently each manufacturer’s format is proprietary, different and typically has multiple variations for different camera models. While RAW file use is increasing, the problems created by their closed, proprietary format are becoming more and more evident.
The problems include:
- Limiting processing choices and creative freedom.
- Reducing choices for software that matches workflow needs.
- Increased probability that as time passes a RAW file will be unreadable or cannot be used to reproduce the photographer’s original interpretation.
- Increased costs and slowed development of image processing software.
In order to start combating these growing problems and gain public awareness of these issues, in 2005 the Open Raw organisation has started. They want camera manufacturers to publicly document fully and openly their RAW image formats — past, present, and future.
But as the Google Tech Lecture from June 27 shows , much needs to be done. Especially from around 54 minutes (last 10 minutes) the video below sets out many of the these coming issues. The video is also a nice introduction to the topic if you like to know more about it.
PhotoTechEDU Day23: Raw Files and Formats by David Cardinal
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